Ebyte Ransomware Targets Windows Users with Advanced Encryption Techniques

A new ransomware variant, known as Ebyte Ransomware, has emerged as a significant threat to Windows users.

Developed in the Go programming language, this ransomware employs sophisticated encryption techniques, including ChaCha20 and Elliptic Curve Integrated Encryption Scheme (ECIES), to lock user files and demand ransom payments.

The ransomware, inspired by Prince Ransomware, adds a unique file extension “.EByteLocker” to encrypted files and modifies the system wallpaper to display a ransom message.

Technical Capabilities and Risks

Ebyte Ransomware is designed to target Windows systems, encrypting all files except critical system files to ensure system stability while rendering user data inaccessible.

It uses a web-based control panel to manage operations, including the generation of executable payloads and communication with command and control (C2) infrastructure.

According to Cyfirma Report, this allows attackers to maintain persistence within compromised environments and execute unauthorized commands remotely.

The ransomware also evades detection by excluding executable and system files from encryption, reducing the likelihood of triggering antivirus software.

The encryption process involves generating a unique locker ID and timestamp, which are sent to a remote server for tracking infections and managing decryption keys.

Files are encrypted recursively across all available drives using the ChaCha20 stream cipher, with the encryption key and nonce encrypted using ECIES for secure transmission.

The ransom note, titled “Decryption Instructions.txt,” instructs victims on how to contact the attackers and negotiate ransom payments in cryptocurrency.

Mitigation and Recommendations

Given the advanced encryption techniques and potential for misuse, cybersecurity experts recommend proactive measures to defend against Ebyte Ransomware.

Organizations should adopt a Zero Trust Security Model, enhance threat intelligence capabilities, and develop comprehensive incident response plans.

Implementing endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions, patching vulnerabilities, and conducting employee security awareness training are also crucial.

Additionally, restricting unnecessary services and implementing application whitelisting can help prevent the execution of unauthorized software.

As Ebyte Ransomware is publicly available on GitHub, its misuse by threat actors poses significant risks.

Therefore, continuous monitoring and threat intelligence are essential to stay ahead of evolving ransomware tactics.

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